Classic Shepherd's Pie Recipe

Introduction

Get ready to savor the comforting flavors of a classic dish that's been a favorite for generations - Shepherd's Pie. This hearty, homestyle recipe is the epitome of comfort food and is sure to warm your soul. Follow our step-by-step guide to create a Shepherd's Pie that will have everyone asking for seconds.

SOURCE

Ingredients You'll Need

Let's start by gathering all the ingredients for this delicious Shepherd's Pie:

For the Mashed Potatoes:

4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed

1/4 cup of butter

1/4 cup of milk

Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Filling:

1 pound of ground beef or ground lamb

1 onion, finely chopped

2 cloves of garlic, minced

2 carrots, peeled and diced

1 cup of frozen peas

1 teaspoon of tomato paste

2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour

1 cup of beef broth

1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce

1 teaspoon of dried thyme

Salt and black pepper to taste

Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

Place the peeled and cubed potatoes in a pot of cold, salted water. Bring it to a boil and let it simmer until the potatoes are fork-tender, which should take about 15-20 minutes.

Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the butter, milk, salt, and black pepper. Mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy. Set them aside.

Step 2: Brown the Meat

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef or lamb over medium-high heat until it's browned and no longer pink. Use a spoon to break it into small crumbles as it cooks. Once done, remove any excess fat.

Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced carrots to the skillet. Sauté them until they're tender, which should take about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Create the Filling

Stir in the tomato paste and flour into the meat and vegetable mixture. Cook for a couple of minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.

Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens and becomes a rich, savory filling.

Add the frozen peas and dried thyme. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Let the mixture simmer for another 5 minutes.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Transfer the meat and vegetable filling into a baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

Spoon the creamy mashed potatoes on top of the filling, creating a smooth layer.

Use a fork to create decorative ridges on the surface of the mashed potatoes.

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the Shepherd's Pie from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Scoop out generous portions onto plates, and relish the heartwarming goodness of this classic dish.

Why Our Shepherd's Pie Shines

Our Shepherd's Pie recipe stands out for a few key reasons:

Wholesome Ingredients

We use simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create a satisfying and nutritious meal.

Flavorful Filling

The combination of ground meat, aromatic vegetables, and savory seasonings results in a filling that's bursting with flavor.

Creamy Potato Topping

The creamy mashed potatoes on top add a delightful contrast in texture and a rich, buttery flavor that perfectly complements the filling.

Conclusion

With our Classic Shepherd's Pie recipe, you'll bring a taste of home to your table. It's a dish that's perfect for family gatherings, weeknight dinners, or any time you want a hearty, comforting meal. Enjoy the warmth and flavor of this timeless favorite.